Make Your Own Planisphere

A planisphere is a device used to look at stars and constellations according to time of night, year, and which direction you are facing. Incorporate an appreciation for Indigenous astronomy in the classroom by making one!

In this activity you can download the Indigenous Wergaia planisphere and the Western planisphere to look at the Southern Hemisphere sky and its constellations.

What you will need for this activity:

  • A4 and A3 sheets of paper
  • Printer
  • Split Pin
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Planisphere cover
  • Western star wheel (yellow)
  • Indigenous star wheel (red)

Downloadable attachments to make your planisphere:

Instructions on how to make your planisphere

Planisphere cover

Western star wheel 

Wergaia star wheel

A story about the Sun from the Boorong Community of the Wergaia Nation

Teachers Click Here

Many of these resources and activities have been developed in consultation with NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) to ensure that the program meets NSW curriculum outcomes for Stages 3, 4 & 5.